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Martin Zubimendi, one of European football’s most coveted midfielders, finds himself at the center of another high-profile transfer saga.

After rebuffing Liverpool’s advances last summer, the Real Sociedad star appears poised for a Premier League move with Arsenal emerging as frontrunner.

However, the deep-rooted connection that kept him in San Sebastian once before might yet influence his decision again.

Last summer, Liverpool appeared on the verge of securing Zubimendi as their marquee signing and the perfect addition to Arne Slot’s tactical system.

The Merseyside club had agreed to activate the Spanish midfielder’s €60 million (£50.1m) release clause written into his contract with Real Sociedad.

The transfer seemed all but complete until Zubimendi made the surprising decision to reject the move and remain with his boyhood club.

For Zubimendi, the decision to stay at Real Sociedad transcended mere professional considerations.

A lot of what I am is part of Real, it’s my life,” Zubimendi explained in an interview with Marca last year.

After that short but intense Liverpool saga last summer, Multiple reports indicate the Gunners are at an advanced stage in negotiations to secure Zubimendi’s signature.

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Arsenal are reportedly confident they will make the Real Sociedad midfielder their first major summer signing.

Despite Arsenal’s confidence, the same emotional attachment that derailed Liverpool’s pursuit might still present challenges.

While reports suggest Zubimendi is now content to finally part ways with Real Sociedad this summer, his deep connection to the club means nothing can be taken for granted until the deal is officially completed.

Now Real Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay has claimed that his coveted midfielder will make his decision in June – and admits he does know what Zubimendi will decide:

We’ll see what happens,” Aperribay told Radio Marca Donostia (quoted by Noticias De Gipuzkoa).

“All I ask of him is one last effort to qualify for Europe and whatever happens, will happen in June.”

“There’s no point in speculating now about whether he’ll be there.”

“He’s had several opportunities to leave and he’ll make the decision he wants, because he’ll have more options.”

Apperribay insists that Zubimendi and Sociedad are focused on qualifying for Europe.

Real Sociedad are 10th in La Liga with 42 points and five matches left.

Martin is part of that.”

“I don’t know if it’s difficult for him to stay.

I don’t know if it’s difficult.”

Further complicating matters is interest from Real Madrid?
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